free childcare is a precious thing. I am far too embarrassed to tell you how much money we spend on childcare (beyond preschool) every weekend.
If you are willing to put in some time watching other kids, then swapping babies is a terrific way to get some childcare. also known as a babysitting coop, these arrangements can run the gamut from casual to highly organized. This picture was taken when Whitney watched my little guy (strapped in) as hers crawled away.
Here are some approaches if you don’t have Whitney for a BFF:
1) regular baby “playdates” — With one trusted pal and similar-aged child, select a few hours on one day of the week where you take the kids and then a few hours where she takes the kids.
2) trade hosting a “kid party” — With babies, toddlers, or preschoolers at your place for a Saturday night, several parents can go out for a real dates, and then get a date night in return. The more the merrier, if you’re brave. the time really does pass quickly when you get outnumbered so it’s anything but boring.
3) Make new pals — since life gets easier when you share childcare, you might need to make new friends.
Now, go on a date already!